2006 Vilafonté Series C
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Tasting notes
The 2006 Series C is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc aged for 22 months in 95% new French oak. Initially, the aromatics are more reticent than the 2005, although it ramps up the intensity with luscious blackberry, raspberry, cedar and mint notes. The palate has more red than black fruit with fine tannins and heightened mineralite compared to previous vintages. The palate is quite feminine and lithe in the mouth, that higher percentage of Merlot fleshing this out and rending it more Right Bank than Left Bank in style (think Figeac rather than Ausone). This is a seriously classy, refined Series C.
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Sweet and complex and with real complexity in a cocoa sort of way. Just a bit harsh. (JR)
(54% cabernet sauvignon, 40% merlot and 6% cabernet franc): Full ruby-red. Sexy, sweet aromas of dark berries and chocolatey oak. Dense, plush, sweet and fine-grained, suavely combining its chocolatey merlot and cassis-and-herb cabernet sauvignon elements. Offers a bit less violety lift (cabernet franc?) than the 2007 but this is bigger and more generous today, not to mention more harmonious. Finishes suave, broad and long.
54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc. 22 months in French oak, 95% new. Intense pure dusty cassis nose. Lovely juicy fine cassis on the palate and attractively dark mid palate – dark chocolate and a hint of liquorice. More complex and layered than the Series M and fine chalky tannins. Just enough flesh and a long fresh finish. Very precise and alcohol well hidden. Delicious. (JH)
About the producer
Based in Paarl, Vilafonté was created by two leading Californian consultants, Zelma Long and Dr Phil Freese, with South African native Mike Ratcliffe. Today its Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blends are some of the country’s most respected – and highest rated.